Linux n00b...problem with startx

[encryptedballa]

Hey guys im new to linux and this forum.

I just installed debian sarge as a desktop and installed gnome, gdm, and xfree86. My problem is, when i type startx i get a fatal error no screens found message. It also says that no devices are found. i read around and came to the conclusion that this is probibly due to incorrect monitor and video settings.

i am using a compaq fs7600 flat screen 17in. monitor
ati radeon x700pro 256mb gpu.
amd sempron 3000+
can someone please walk me through what i need to input in xf86config?
Could something else be causing this problem?

i appreciate then help you guys to give for i am very exited to get involved with linux!

thanks,

Nic

[DoctorDan]

try making sure you have the right drivers installed and correct stats for your screen in XF84Config-4

[encryptedballa]

how do i get/install drivers?

[Vergil83]

actually first thing, make sure you run

dpkg-reconfigure xserver-xfree86

[encryptedballa]

yes i ran that...i thought it was the same thing as xf86config?

[untak]

x-window-system
xfree86
gdm
gnome

get these things with aptitude

[Javasnob]

In your /etc/X11/XF86Config-4 file, there should be a section called Device that corresponds to your graphics card. Change the driver to "vesa" or "ati", and make sure that your Screen section uses the same name for your card that your Device section does. You might need to change the bit depths a bit, and as for the monitor, I'm not too sure on how that goes.

[DoctorDan]

yea try using 8 bit depth first just to see if it works. mine is wierd.. it can use 15 bit but not 16. i just had to play around with XF86Conifg-4 file

[encryptedballa]

In your /etc/X11/XF86Config-4 file, there should be a section called Device that corresponds to your graphics card. Change the driver to "vesa" or "ati", and make sure that your Screen section uses the same name for your card that your Device section does. You might need to change the bit depths a bit, and as for the monitor, I'm not too sure on how that goes.

i had set my card to ati before all this so ill try vesa. how do i open a file from the command? usually when i input a line in command that starts with a folder i get text saying bash: this is a folder or something like that.

[Javasnob]

To open a file (Ex. XF86Config-4):

pico XF86Config-4

or

nano XF86Config-4

Pico and nano (which are usually the same thing on a Debian system) are good straightforward console text-editors. I'd reccomend vi or vim, but they're a little awkward to use at first. But do learn how to use them.